MIT Professor's Battery Research Combats Climate Change

Yet-Ming Chiang, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has dedicated his research to tackling the climate crisis through innovative solutions in battery technology, green cement, and critical minerals.

Chiang’s research has led to the creation of ten startups, eight of which are focused on energy and sustainability. These startups have raised over $2.5 billion to develop solutions for climate change.

Chiang's Battery Startups: A Legacy of Innovation

Chiang's passion for climate change mitigation has driven him to establish multiple companies dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative battery technologies.

• Form Energy: This startup, which has raised nearly $1 billion, focuses on iron-air battery products.
• American Superconductor: Established in 1987, this company produces high-temperature superconducting wire for energy and power applications.
• A123 Systems: Founded in 2001, this company initially developed fast-charging lithium-ion batteries before facing challenges and being acquired by Chinese ownership.

From Batteries to Cement: A Shift in Focus

Chiang's research extends beyond batteries to address the decarbonization of other industries, particularly the cement sector.

• Sublime Systems: This company, founded in 2020, has developed an electrochemical process that replaces the high-temperature kilns traditionally used for cement production, significantly reducing CO2 emissions.

Beyond Cement: A Multifaceted Approach to Decarbonization

Chiang's dedication to climate change mitigation extends to various industries, including electric aircraft, critical minerals, and geologic hydrogen.

• Propel Aero: This startup is developing engines for electric aircraft that could also power ships and trains.
• Lithium Extraction Startup: Chiang is working on a startup that aims to develop more environmentally friendly methods for extracting lithium from hard rock.
• Geologic Hydrogen Startup: This company focuses on harnessing the potential of geologic hydrogen as a vast source of carbon-free energy.

Critical Minerals: Addressing the Environmental Challenges of Mining

Chiang recognizes the environmental impact of mining critical minerals and is exploring alternative approaches that minimize pollution.

• He is currently researching methods for extracting critical minerals without relying on high-temperature smelters, which have historically contributed to acid rain.

The Importance of Innovation in Decarbonization

Chiang emphasizes the importance of reinvention and innovation in decarbonization, noting that it provides an opportunity to transform industries that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

• His belief in the power of innovation fuels his continued research and entrepreneurial ventures, aiming to contribute to a sustainable future.

Yet-Ming Chiang: A Visionary Leader in Sustainability

Chiang's dedication to climate change mitigation, combined with his impressive track record of founding startups and developing innovative technologies, solidifies his position as a leading figure in the field of sustainability.

• His work inspires hope that the challenges of climate change can be overcome through ingenuity and collaboration.